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Maca (Lepidium meyenii Walp) is renowned for its phytochemicals, including amino acids, saponins, and macamides, confer nutritional and medicinal benefits. This study analyzed the bioactive constituents of maca via solid-state fermentation with Rhizopus oligosporus for 0–15 days. After fermentation, the l-carnitine content reached 157.3 μg/g. A 93% increase in macamide B was recorded after 7-day fermentation. Total flavonoid and saponin contents increased by 88.2% and 110.3%, respectively. The fermentation process significantly enhanced the physicochemical attributes of maca; in particular, its water retention and cholesterol-binding capacities increased by 1.73- and 4.30-fold, respectively, compared with the non-fermented maca. Moreover, fermented maca exhibited stronger antioxidant and α-glucosidase-inhibiting effects than non-fermented maca. Finally, the neuroprotective effect of maca on HT-22 cells increased by 23% after 5-day fermentation. These findings demonstrate the potential of fermented maca as a novel ingredient for foods, beverages, and pharmaceuticals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cellular automaton (CA) is a computing model which is emerging rapidly. It is largely used in different types of scientific applications and simulations due to its ability to solve complex problems using simple rule(s). Cellular automata (CAs) are used in different types of applications like cryptography, VLSI systems, fault detection, etc. Typically, most of these applications utilize one-dimensional, 2-state, 3-neighborhood CAs. This paper explores the concept of Next State RMT Transition Diagram (NSRTD) for characterization of all the Elementary Cellular Automata (ECA) rules in periodic boundary condition leading to the identification of all ECA rules forming more than two fixed points (referred to as Single Length Cycle Multi-Attractor CA (MACA)) for an arbitrary CA length (n). For this, the 88 Wolfram classification rules and their equivalent rules have been utilized to reduce the search complexity by avoiding exhaustive searching on all the 256 ECA rules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Discriminating different cultivars of maca powder (MP) and detecting their authenticity after adulteration with potent adulterants such as maize and soy flour is a challenge that has not been studied with non-invasive techniques such as near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS). This study developed models to rapidly classify and predict 0, 10, 20, 30, 40, and 50% w/w of soybean and maize flour in red, black and yellow maca cultivars using a handheld spectrophotometer and chemometrics. Soy and maize adulteration of yellow MP was classified with better accuracy than in red MP, suggesting that red MP may be a more susceptible target for adulteration. Soy flour was discovered to be a more potent adulterant compared to maize flour. Using 18 different pretreatments, MP could be authenticated with R2 CV in the range 0.91–0.95, RMSECV 6.81–9.16 g/,100 g and RPD 3.45–4.60. The results show the potential of NIRS for monitoring Maca quality.

Increasing water deficits and warming temperatures due to climate change threaten agricultural systems in the Peruvian Andes, where environmental conditions are themselves challenging. Lepidium meyenii Walpers also known as "maca" is an endemic root crop that can tolerate adverse conditions such as low temperatures and high UV radiation, but little is known about its response to drought. This study aimed to test the effect on maca germination and early seedling growth of water restriction under two maximum temperatures: 15 °C (current scenario) and 20 °C (warming scenario). Water restriction had either a direct or a temperature-dependent effect on germination and above-ground seedling growth, which was greater at 15 °C. By contrast, its effects on seedlings growing at 20 °C were completely overcome by faster germination, initial growth, and biomass acquisition. The results are consistent with those from other crops and contribute to the understanding of how climate change is affecting high-mountain agriculture. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

From a documentary historical perspective, the commercial expansion of telecommunications systems from first-world countries that have maintained a dominant presence in Mexico for 100 years is analyzed. The activated FM receiver in cell phones, which Apple has decided not to activate, serves as an example of the need to regulate the power of multinational corporations, which diminishes visibility in public communication and social media. Neither the public pressure from authorities, industry, and civil society in Mexico, Canada, nor the United States has succeeded in dissuading the iPhone from allowing such signals on its devices, thereby favoring the sales of headphones, music services, and mobile broadband data payments. Contributions from direct contact with media representatives and regulatory bodies are included. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The cellular automaton (CA) is a rapidly emerging computational model that is widely used in different areas of simulations and scientific applications, as it can solve complex problems using simple rules. Cellular automata (CAs) are largely used in VLSI systems, fault detection, cryptography and other fields. In most of these applications, 2-state 3-neighborhood one-dimensional CAs are used. Some of the work on characterizing elementary CA (ECA) rules has been done, but all such work mainly focuses on a specific boundary condition (i.e., null, periodic boundary). This paper targets the design and development of a generic framework for the next state rule minterm transition diagram (NSRTD), referred to as the generic NSRTD (G-NSRTD), for constant (0/1) boundary conditions. By utilizing the developed G-NSRTD framework, which is reconfigurable based on the chosen boundary condition (constant-0/1), ECA rules can be characterized for both null and constant-1 boundary conditions. Hence, the current paper also focuses on characterizing all 256 ECA rules in constant (0/1) boundary conditions using the developed G-NSRTD framework, leading to the identification of all CA rules forming uniform single length cycle single-attractor CAs (SACAs), single length cycle two-attractor CAs (TACAs) and single length cycle multi-attractor CAs (MACAs) for arbitrary CA length n. Some of the relevant CA theories related to the characterization of ECA rules in constant (0/1) boundary conditions have been developed and reported accordingly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maca is a traditional Andean crop used as a nutraceutical for the fertilityenhancing properties that are linked with antioxidant activity. The aim of this study was to evaluate, for the first time, the potential beneficial effects of oral Maca (Lepidium meyenii or Lepidium peruvianum) supplementation in improving reproductive performance in male dogs. Forty-eight male dogs of different breeds were enrolled in the study, fed the same maintenance diet, and exposed to the same environmental conditions. The subjects were divided into four groups of 12 dogs each: Subfertile treatment group, Subfertile control group, Normofertile treatment group, and Normofertile control group. The dogs in the treatment groups received Lepidium meyenii in their diet in a capsule formulation [75mg/ kg Maca extract 10:1, thickening agent (hydroxypropyl methylcellulose), ground rice], while the control groups received placebo capsule (starch). For each subject included in the study, the spermiogram was analyzed at three time points of the sperm cycle: at day 0 (T0), day 31 (T31), and day 62 (T62). Dietary supplementation with Maca in subfertile subjects resulted in a significant increase in ejaculate volume and total sperm count compared to the control group. This increase was also observed in normofertile subjects in the treatment group. In addition, total and progressive motility as well as sperm morphology were significantly improved in the groups treated with Maca compared to the control groups. The results thus highlight, for the first time, the potential efficacy of supplementation with 75mg/ kg of Maca extract daily in improving semen quality in dogs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maca (Lepidium meyenii), a biennial herbaceous plant indigenous to the Andes Mountains, has a rich history of traditional use for its purported health benefits. Maca's chemical composition varies due to ecotypes, growth conditions, and post-harvest processing, contributing to its intricate phytochemical profile, including, macamides, macaenes, and glucosinolates, among other components. This review provides an in-depth revision and analysis of Maca's diverse bioactive metabolites, focusing on the pharmacological properties registered in pre-clinical and clinical studies. Maca is generally safe, with rare adverse effects, supported by preclinical studies revealing low toxicity and good human tolerance. Preclinical investigations highlight the benefits attributed to Maca compounds, including neuroprotection, anti-inflammatory properties, immunoregulation, and antioxidant effects. Maca has also shown potential for enhancing fertility, combating fatigue, and exhibiting potential antitumor properties. Maca's versatility extends to metabolic regulation, gastrointestinal health, cardio protection, antihypertensive activity, photoprotection, muscle growth, hepatoprotection, proangiogenic effects, antithrombotic properties, and antiallergic activity. Clinical studies, primarily focused on sexual health, indicate improved sexual desire, erectile function, and subjective wellbeing in men. Maca also shows promise in alleviating menopausal symptoms in women and enhancing physical performance. Further research is essential to uncover the mechanisms and clinical applications of Maca's unique bioactive metabolites, solidifying its place as a subject of growing scientific interest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A cadeia produtiva da maçã encontra-se em ascensão no Brasil, com alto índice de crescimento ainda que com apenas cinco décadas de história. O mercado ainda tem possibilidade de expansão, tanto a nível de Brasil como mundialmente, sendo um grande obstáculo a logística de armazenamento e transporte para longas distâncias em razão da perecibilidade da fruta. Com a alta qualidade das maçãs produzidas no país, ainda que se exija investimento tecnológico, o aumento da produção e direcionamento de frutas sadias e de alta qualidade para a produção de sidra pode agregar valor à cadeia e ser uma opção economicamente rentável. Para tanto, cumpre compreender a cadeia da maçã, o mercado já estabelecido, os desafios da logística e os custos envolvidos a fim de prospectar a sustentabilidade da cadeia e a perspectiva de evolução ao desenvolvimento da sidra. Através de uma visão estratégica e de marketing, a agregação de valor através da produção da sidra de boa qualidade, prospecta a possibilidade resultados favoráveis ao setor.

ABSTRACTMaca is rich in bioactive compounds and has considerable potential for commercial application as a functional food material. In this study, maca root polysaccharides (MRPs) were prepared via hot water extraction, enzyme-assisted extraction, ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE), and deep eutectic solvent (DES)-based UAE, and their physicochemical properties and biological activities were compared. The MRP obtained using DES-based UAE (MRP-DU) exhibited the highest yield (30.85%), oil-holding capacity (5.21 g/g), emulsifying capacity (50.58%), and emulsion stability (48.14%). Additionally, MRP-DU exhibited the highest antidiabetic and absorption-retarding effects on glucose and bile acid. These results suggest that MRP obtained using DES-based UAE have high application potential as functional food materials and could also serve as antidiabetic and cholesterol-lowering agents.

Maca (Lepidium meyenii, Lepidium peruvianum) is part of the Brassicaceae family and grows at high altitudes in the Peruvian Andes mountain range (3500–5000 m). Historically, it has been used as a nutrient-dense food and for its medicinal properties, primarily in enhancing energy and fertility. Scientific research has validated these traditional uses and other clinical applications by elucidating maca's mechanisms of action, nutrition, and phytochemical content. However, research over the last twenty years has identified up to seventeen different colors (phenotypes) of maca. The color, hypocotyl size, growing location, cultivation, and post-harvest processing methods can have a significant effect on the nutrition content, phytochemical profile, and clinical application. Yet, research differentiating the colors of maca and clinical applications remains limited. In this review, research on the nutrition, phytochemicals, and various colors of maca, including black, red, yellow (predominant colors), purple, gray (lesser-known colors), and any combination of colors, including proprietary formulations, will be discussed based on available preclinical and clinical trials. The gaps, deficiencies, and conflicts in the studies will be detailed, along with quality, safety, and efficacy criteria, highlighting the need for future research to specify all these factors of the maca used in publications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maca is a traditional Andean crop used as a nutraceutical for the fertility-enhancing properties that are linked with antioxidant activity. The aim of this study was to evaluate, for the first time, the potential beneficial effects of oral Maca (Lepidium meyenii or Lepidium peruvianum) supplementation in improving reproductive performance in male dogs. Forty-eight male dogs of different breeds were enrolled in the study, fed the same maintenance diet, and exposed to the same environmental conditions. The subjects were divided into four groups of 12 dogs each: Subfertile treatment group, Subfertile control group, Normofertile treatment group, and Normofertile control group. The dogs in the treatment groups received Lepidium meyenii in their diet in a capsule formulation [75 mg/kg Maca extract 10:1, thickening agent (hydroxypropyl methylcellulose), ground rice], while the control groups received placebo capsule (starch). For each subject included in the study, the spermiogram was analyzed at three time points of the sperm cycle: at day 0 (T0), day 31 (T31), and day 62 (T62). Dietary supplementation with Maca in subfertile subjects resulted in a significant increase in ejaculate volume and total sperm count compared to the control group. This increase was also observed in normofertile subjects in the treatment group. In addition, total and progressive motility as well as sperm morphology were significantly improved in the groups treated with Maca compared to the control groups. The results thus highlight, for the first time, the potential efficacy of supplementation with 75 mg/kg of Maca extract daily in improving semen quality in dogs.

Maca (Lepidium meyenii), a biennial herbaceous plant indigenous to the Andes Mountains, has a rich history of traditional use for its purported health benefits. Maca’s chemical composition varies due to ecotypes, growth conditions, and post-harvest processing, contributing to its intricate phytochemical profile, including, macamides, macaenes, and glucosinolates, among other components. This review provides an in-depth revision and analysis of Maca’s diverse bioactive metabolites, focusing on the pharmacological properties registered in pre-clinical and clinical studies. Maca is generally safe, with rare adverse effects, supported by preclinical studies revealing low toxicity and good human tolerance. Preclinical investigations highlight the benefits attributed to Maca compounds, including neuroprotection, anti-inflammatory properties, immunoregulation, and antioxidant effects. Maca has also shown potential for enhancing fertility, combating fatigue, and exhibiting potential antitumor properties. Maca’s versatility extends to metabolic regulation, gastrointestinal health, cardio protection, antihypertensive activity, photoprotection, muscle growth, hepatoprotection, proangiogenic effects, antithrombotic properties, and antiallergic activity. Clinical studies, primarily focused on sexual health, indicate improved sexual desire, erectile function, and subjective wellbeing in men. Maca also shows promise in alleviating menopausal symptoms in women and enhancing physical performance. Further research is essential to uncover the mechanisms and clinical applications of Maca’s unique bioactive metabolites, solidifying its place as a subject of growing scientific interest.

Since 2005, large areas have been planted for maca, the introduced cash crop, on cropland and grassland in Yunnan, China. While cash crops offer clear economic benefits over conventional crops, they also reduce the amount of land for wildlife, especially wading birds. The effect of cash crops on the energetic carrying capacity for birds requires evaluation. The black‐necked crane (Grus nigricollis) is a flagship species wintering in northeast and northwest Yunnan where large areas of cropland and grassland have been converted to maca production. Understanding changes in the energetic carrying capacity in response to increasing maca production will facilitate the development of effective conservation plans for the protection of black‐necked cranes. We estimated food density and the crane's daily energy requirements by observing the foraging behavior of crane individuals using telescopes and recorded video to measure the energetic carrying capacity of the black‐necked crane in the Dashanbao National Nature Reserve. The monthly energetic carrying capacity was similar between the pre‐expansion planting period for maca (2012–2014) and the expansion planting period (2014–2015). The abundance of invertebrates in grassland in December and January and Tartary buckwheat in March was below the food density threshold (below which foraging becomes energetically unprofitable) in both the pre‐and post‐maca planting years. In addition, the crop yield was significantly affected by freeze damage in spring. Thus, climate and abundance of invertebrates affect the energetic carrying capacity of black‐necked cranes in Dashanbao Reserve. We suggest that the local relevant departments should fully assess the potential effect on the cranes when implementing the large‐scale cultivation of introduced crops and avoid the large‐scale planting of single‐species crops. The largest planted area in suitable farmland within the study area should not exceed 1,000 ha. Maca planting should be undertaken with caution in this area because of the potential effect on black‐necked cranes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nowadays, nutritional foods have a great impact on healthy diets. In particular, maca, oatmeal, broad bean, soybean, and algarrobo are widely used in different ways in the daily diets of many people due to their nutritional components. However, many of these foods share certain physical similarities with others of lower quality, making it difficult to identify them with certainty. Few studies have been conducted to find any differences using practical techniques with minimal preparation and in short durations. In this work, Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Near Infrared Spectroscopy (NIR) were used to classify and distinguish samples based on their chemical properties. The spectral data were pretreated to further highlight the differences among the samples determined via PCA. The results indicate that the raw spectral data of all the samples had similar patterns, and their respective PCA analysis results could not be used to differentiate them. However, pretreated data differentiated the foods in separate clusters according to score plots. The main difference was a C-O band that corresponded to a vibration mode at 4644 cm−1 associated with protein content. PCA combined with spectral analysis can be used to differentiate and classify foods using small samples through the chemical properties on their surfaces. This study contributes new knowledge toward the more precise identification of foods, even if they are combined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: We aimed to systematically evaluate the prevalence and clinical characteristics of adverse events associated with the adaptogens and antidepressant drug interactions in a retrospective chart review. Methodology: A total of 1,816 reports of adverse events were evaluated. Cases were included in the analysis if the pharmacoepidemiological analysis showed the presence of a high probability of a causal relationship between an adaptogen and antidepressant interaction and the occurrence of adverse events. The following data were extracted from the reports: age, sex, antidepressant, plant products containing adaptogens, other concomitant medications, and clinical consequences of the interactions and their possible mechanisms. Results: Adaptogens were involved in 9% of adverse events associated with the concomitant use of antidepressants and other preparations. We identified 30 reports in which side effects presented a causal relationship with the use of antidepressants and adaptogens. Here, we present the list of adaptogens with the corresponding antidepressants and the side effects caused by their interactions: Withania somnifera: reboxetine (testicle pain and ejaculatory dysfunctions), sertraline (severe diarrhea), escitalopram (myalgia, epigastric pain, nausea, vomiting, restless legs syndrome, and severe cough), and paroxetine (generalized myalgia, ophthalmalgia, and ocular hypertension); Eleutherococcus senticosus: duloxetine (upper gastrointestinal bleeding), paroxetine (epistaxis), sertraline (vaginal hemorrhage), and agomelatine (irritability, agitation, headache, and dizziness); Schisandra chinensis: bupropion (arthralgia and thrombocytopenia), amitriptyline (delirium), and fluoxetine (dysuria); Tribulus terrestris: citalopram (generalized pruritus), escitalopram (galactorrhea), and trazodone (psoriasis relapse); Coptis chinensis: mianserin (arrhythmias), mirtazapine (edema of lower limbs and myalgia), and fluoxetine (gynecomastia); Cimicifuga racemosa: mianserin (restless legs syndrome), paroxetine (gynecomastia and mastalgia), and venlafaxine (myocardial infarction); Gynostemma pentaphyllum: duloxetine (back pain); Cordyceps sinensis: sertraline (upper gastrointestinal bleeding); Lepidium meyenii: mianserin (restless legs syndrome); and Scutellaria baicalensis: bupropion (seizures). Conclusion: Clinicians should monitor the adverse events associated with the concomitant use of adaptogens and antidepressant drugs in patients with mental disorders. Aggregation of side effects and pharmacokinetic interactions (inhibition of CYP and p-glycoprotein) between those medicines may result in clinically significant adverse events. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since 3D-EM closely resembles in vivo muscles, the aim of this study was to investigate the effects of exercise (electrical pulse stimulation (EPS)) and nutrition (maca), which contains triterpenes, on muscle hypertrophy by using 3D-EM for the first time. The 3D-EM was composed of C2C12 cells and type 1 collagen gel, was differentiated for 14 days, and was divided into four groups: control, maca, EPS, and maca + EPS. The medium was replaced every two days before each EPS intervention, and the concentration of maca in the culture solution was 1 mg/mL. The intervention conditions of the EPS were 30 V, 1 Hz, and 2 ms (24 h on, 24 h off, for one week). The expression levels of proteins were examined by Western blotting. The intervention of maca and EPS upregulated the expression of MHC-fast/slow (both p < 0.05) compared with the control group, and the addition of maca had no effect on the phosphorylation of mTOR (p = 0.287) but increased the AMPK phosphorylation (p = 0.001). These findings suggest that intervention with maca and EPS has a positive effect on muscle hypertrophy, which has a positive impact on sarcopenia. However, the underlying mechanisms remain to be further explored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The prostate gland considers the most important gland among rabbits' accessory genital glands and secretes many factors essential for sperm function. This study aims to show the impact of Maca as an antioxidant on the prostate gland's histomorphology and its capacity to reduce the effects of oxidative stress. Twenty-four healthy New Zealand white male rabbits, 6-8 months divided into 4 groups.1st group (control group), 2nd group (Maca), 3rd group (H2O2), 4th group (Maca+ H2O2). To evaluate these effects, we used histomorphometrical studies. In control and Maca groups, acini were lined by simple columnar epithelium and showed normal interstitium. However, in H2O2 treated rabbits, we observed cuboidal epithelium and epithelium height decreased significantly compared to other groups, and interstitium showed fibrosis. Also, in H2O2 treated rabbits, we observed mild degenerative changes in the epithelial lining the acini, with karyolitic nucleus and vacuolated cytoplasm. In concern to acini length, we observed that the secretory units in Maca groups was overcrowd due to increasing acini length. However, in H2O2 exposed rabbits the diameter of the glandular portion and the length of the acini decreased significantly compared to other groups. Moreover, in H2O2 treated rabbits we demonstrated other changes as congested and hyperemic blood vessels and muscular layer appeared disorganized and degenerated. In Maca+ H2O2 (H+M) treated rabbits the epithelium reverted to simple columnar and the secretory activity increased compared to H2O2 group. In conclusion, we can ensure the effect of Maca as an antioxidant and its ameliorative effect on oxidative stressed rabbits.

Aim: We aimed to systematically evaluate the prevalence and clinical characteristics of adverse events associated with the adaptogens and antidepressant drug interactions in a retrospective chart review.Methodology: A total of 1,816 reports of adverse events were evaluated. Cases were included in the analysis if the pharmacoepidemiological analysis showed the presence of a high probability of a causal relationship between an adaptogen and antidepressant interaction and the occurrence of adverse events. The following data were extracted from the reports: age, sex, antidepressant, plant products containing adaptogens, other concomitant medications, and clinical consequences of the interactions and their possible mechanisms.Results: Adaptogens were involved in 9% of adverse events associated with the concomitant use of antidepressants and other preparations. We identified 30 reports in which side effects presented a causal relationship with the use of antidepressants and adaptogens. Here, we present the list of adaptogens with the corresponding antidepressants and the side effects caused by their interactions: Withania somnifera: reboxetine (testicle pain and ejaculatory dysfunctions), sertraline (severe diarrhea), escitalopram (myalgia, epigastric pain, nausea, vomiting, restless legs syndrome, and severe cough), and paroxetine (generalized myalgia, ophthalmalgia, and ocular hypertension); Eleutherococcus senticosus: duloxetine (upper gastrointestinal bleeding), paroxetine (epistaxis), sertraline (vaginal hemorrhage), and agomelatine (irritability, agitation, headache, and dizziness); Schisandra chinensis: bupropion (arthralgia and thrombocytopenia), amitriptyline (delirium), and fluoxetine (dysuria); Tribulus terrestris: citalopram (generalized pruritus), escitalopram (galactorrhea), and trazodone (psoriasis relapse); Coptis chinensis: mianserin (arrhythmias), mirtazapine (edema of lower limbs and myalgia), and fluoxetine (gynecomastia); Cimicifuga racemosa: mianserin (restless legs syndrome), paroxetine (gynecomastia and mastalgia), and venlafaxine (hyponatremia); Bacopa monnieri: agomelatine (back pain and hyperhidrosis) and moclobemide (myocardial infarction); Gynostemma pentaphyllum: duloxetine (back pain); Cordyceps sinensis: sertraline (upper gastrointestinal bleeding); Lepidium meyenii: mianserin (restless legs syndrome); and Scutellaria baicalensis: bupropion (seizures).Conclusion: Clinicians should monitor the adverse events associated with the concomitant use of adaptogens and antidepressant drugs in patients with mental disorders. Aggregation of side effects and pharmacokinetic interactions (inhibition of CYP and p-glycoprotein) between those medicines may result in clinically significant adverse events.

This study was conducted on lambs and rams. Hence, 15 weaning lambs at 60 days of age were randomly distributed to G1, G2 and G3 groups (n=5 in each) at live body weight (LBW) 9.8 kg. The G1, G2 and G3 were received maca powder at 0, 200, 400 mg / kg LBW plus daily basal requirements diet (DBRD), respectively. The LBW, daily weight gain (DWG), scrotal development, testosterone level and blood parameters were assayed. Otherwise, 9 maturity rams at 19 months with 53.98 kg formed G1, G2 and G3 (n=3 in each) were used to evaluate semen characteristics. The G1, G2 and G3 were given 0, 50, 100 mg of maca powder / kg LBW plus DBRD, respectively. The findings indicated that, G2 and G3 lambs had more positive changing in LBW, DWG, scrotal development, testosterone level and blood parameters than G1 lambs. Also, G2 and G3 rams had more significantly improved semen characteristics than G1 rams. Economic efficiency (EE) of lambs was greater in G2 (2.62) than G3 (2.50) and G1 (2.43). The EE of rams was 3.24, 4.42 and 4.32 in G1, G2 and G3, respectively. Thusly, lambs and rams had respectively the best results at 200 or 50 mg of maca add to DBRD diet. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maca (Lepidium meyenii) has been reported to improve erectile function (EF). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical evidence for or against maca as a therapy for erectile dysfunction (ED) in men. We searched 11 databases for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing any type of maca with a placebo in the treatment of ED in men. The primary endpoint was EF, while the secondary endpoints were quality of life and adverse events. Risk of bias (ROB) was assessed using the Cochrane ROB tool 2.0. Study selection, data extraction, and assessment were independently performed by two researchers. RevMan 5.4.1 software (Cochrane Collaboration, 2020) was used for data aggregation, and the Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) assessment was used to evaluate the quality of the study outcomes. Only two RCTs met all the inclusion criteria. These RCTs examined the effects of maca on EF in patients with mild ED. One RCT showed a positive effect of maca on EF, whereas the other RCT did not. The results of the meta-analysis indicate that maca has positive effects on EF in men with mild ED (n = 79, MDs 1.13: 0.64 to 1.61, p = 0.01; p < 0.0001). Our comprehensive review found limited evidence for the benefits of maca in improving EF. Several limitations, including the total number of studies and their sample sizes, were insufficient to draw firm conclusions. Further studies are needed.

This study was conducted at the University of Kirkuk / College of Agriculture in the fields ofthe Department of Animal Production to see if the powder was essential in the semencharacteristics of the breeder males of Ross 308 broilers, as 40 roosters were randomly divided atthe age of 55 family trips, five roosters per treatment, the third treatment, the treatment First, firsttreatment (first treatment) add 0.5 gm vitamin E / kg feed, third treatment add 0.5 gm maca tubersbase / kg feed, fourth treatment add 1 gm maca tubers base / kg feed + add 0.5 g base maca tubers/ kg feed + add 0.5 gm maca tubers base / kg feed + add 0.5 g vitamin E / kg feed, seventh treatment1 1 gm maca tubers base / kg feed + add 0.5 g vitamin E / kg, eighth treatment, 1.5 maca tuberspowder / kg feed + Add 0.5 gm vitamin E / kg. Results The addition of the study group to the studygroup. The high concentration of maca tubers powder 1.5 gm maca powder basis / kg feed with orwithout vitamin E represented by the fifth and eighth treatments was a significant superiority overthe control group and the rest of the study in improving the volume of ejaculate, spermconcentration, movement and individuality of sperm, offset by a significant decrease in thepercentages of dead and distorted sperm, and an increase in the percentages of dead and distortedsperm. Significant in the concentration of glutathione and the decrease in MDD in all study groupcompared to the group over a period of four and eight weeks. Based on this study, this studyproduced broiler broilers by age.

This study was conducted at the University of Kirkuk / College of Agriculture in the fields ofthe Department of Animal Production to see if the powder was essential in the semencharacteristics of the breeder males of Ross 308 broilers, as 40 roosters were randomly divided atthe age of 55 family trips, five roosters per treatment, the third treatment, the treatment First, firsttreatment (first treatment) add 0.5 gm vitamin E / kg feed, third treatment add 0.5 gm maca tubersbase / kg feed, fourth treatment add 1 gm maca tubers base / kg feed + add 0.5 g base maca tubers/ kg feed + add 0.5 gm maca tubers base / kg feed + add 0.5 g vitamin E / kg feed, seventh treatment1 1 gm maca tubers base / kg feed + add 0.5 g vitamin E / kg, eighth treatment, 1.5 maca tuberspowder / kg feed + Add 0.5 gm vitamin E / kg. Results The addition of the study group to the studygroup. The high concentration of maca tubers powder 1.5 gm maca powder basis / kg feed with orwithout vitamin E represented by the fifth and eighth treatments was a significant superiority overthe control group and the rest of the study in improving the volume of ejaculate, spermconcentration, movement and individuality of sperm, offset by a significant decrease in thepercentages of dead and distorted sperm, and an increase in the percentages of dead and distortedsperm. Significant in the concentration of glutathione and the decrease in MDD in all study groupcompared to the group over a period of four and eight weeks. Based on this study, this studyproduced broiler broilers by age

Background: In medicinal plants, selection, reproduction and preservation of important genotypes are very necessary. Nowadays, using tissue culture and regeneration techniques of medicinal plants under in vitro conditions has been able to proliferate medicinal plants widely, which is much higher than traditional methods of vegetative propagation. Maca (Lepidium meyenii), is an industrial plant whose root is the usable part. Maca has valuable medicinal effects such as sexual enhancement and reproductive power, infertility treatment, improved sperm count and quality, anti-stress, osteoporosis prevention and more. Methods and results: This study was conducted to induce callus and regeneration of Maca. First, MS medium supplemented with different concentrations of Kinetin, Naphthaleneacetic acid and 2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid [0.5, 1 and 2 µM respectively] and control were compared for callus induction from root and leaves. After 38 days of incubation, the first callus appeared, after 50 days of callus induction and after 79 days regeneration occurred. The callus induction experiment was performed for the study of the effect of three explants (leaf, stem and root) and seven hormone levels. The regeneration experiment was carried out by studying the effect of three explants (leaf, stem and root) on eight levels of the hormone. The results of data analysis on callus induction showed that the effects of explants, hormones and their interactions on callus induction percentage were highly significant but not significant on callus growth rate. The results of regression analysis showed that explants, hormones and their interactions had no significant effect on regeneration percentage. Conclusion: Based on our results, the best medium for inducing callus was Hormone 2,4-D [2 µM] and Kinetin [0.5 µM], in which the highest percentage of callus induction was in leaf explants (62%). And the lowest were in stem (30%) and root (27%) explants. According to the comparison of the mean, the best environment for regeneration of the environment was 4 µM 6-Benzylaminopurine 2.5 + Thidiazuron, in which the highest percentage of regeneration was in leaf explant (87%) and stem (69%) and the lowest in root explant (12). %). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of the extraction conditions on the DPPH radical scavenging activity and isolation of bioactive compounds from the maca (Lepidium meyenii) root was investigated. Different extraction techniques (maceration, maceration with shaking, ultrasound-assisted extraction, and reflux extraction) were compared. Moreover, the effect of the extraction time and two various solvents (water and ethanol) was studied. The antioxidant activity of extracts was determined by the spectrophotometric method with the DPPH radical, while total phenolic content (TPC) was analyzed by the Folin–Ciocalteu method. Using gas chromatography with a mass selective detector (GC-MS), some characteristics of maca bioactive compounds were identified in the extracts: benzylalkamides (macamides), sterols, nitriles, fatty acids, and their derivatives. The influence of various factors on the extraction process of health-promoting antioxidant compounds from maca root was discussed. It was found that water was a more effective solvent than ethanol for obtaining extracts characterized by high radical scavenging activity and phenolics content. Nevertheless, some ethanol-extractable valuable compounds specific for maca, e.g., macamides or fatty acids derivatives, were not present in water extracts. In developing nutritional and therapeutic formulations based on maca extracts, it is important to take into account that the bioactivity of maca extracts varies depending on the solvent used. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maca (Lepidium meyenii, Lepidium peruvianum) is part of the Brassicaceae family and grows at high altitudes in the Peruvian Andes mountain range (3500–5000 m). Historically, it has been used as a nutrient-dense food and for its medicinal properties, primarily in enhancing energy and fertility. Scientific research has validated these traditional uses and other clinical applications by elucidating maca’s mechanisms of action, nutrition, and phytochemical content. However, research over the last twenty years has identified up to seventeen different colors (phenotypes) of maca. The color, hypocotyl size, growing location, cultivation, and post-harvest processing methods can have a significant effect on the nutrition content, phytochemical profile, and clinical application. Yet, research differentiating the colors of maca and clinical applications remains limited. In this review, research on the nutrition, phytochemicals, and various colors of maca, including black, red, yellow (predominant colors), purple, gray (lesser-known colors), and any combination of colors, including proprietary formulations, will be discussed based on available preclinical and clinical trials. The gaps, deficiencies, and conflicts in the studies will be detailed, along with quality, safety, and efficacy criteria, highlighting the need for future research to specify all these factors of the maca used in publications.

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a congenital, lifelong neurodevelopmental disorder whose main symptom is impaired social communication and interaction. However, no drug can treat social deficits in patients with ASD, and treatments to alleviate social behavioral deficits are sorely needed. Here, we examined the effect of oral supplementation of maca (Lepidium meyenii) on social deficits of in utero-exposed valproic acid (VPA) mice, widely used as an ASD model. Although maca is widely consumed as a fertility enhancer and aphrodisiac, it possesses multiple beneficial activities. Additionally, it benefits learning and memory in experimental animal models. Therefore, the effect of maca supplementation on the social behavioral deficit of VPA mice was assessed using a social interaction test, a three-stage open field test, and a five-trial social memory test. The oral supplementation of maca attenuated social interaction behavior deficit and social memory impairment. The number of c-Fos-positive cells and the percentage of c-Fos-positive oxytocin neurons increased in supraoptic and paraventricular neurons of maca-treated VPA mice. These results reveal for the first time that maca is beneficial to social memory and that it restores social recognition impairments by augmenting the oxytocinergic neuronal pathways, which play an essential role in diverse social behaviors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Modern Food Science & Technology is the property of Editorial Office of Modern Food Science & Technology and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Journal of Animal & Poultry Production is the property of Egyptian National Agricultural Library (ENAL) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Maca is rich in bioactive compounds and has considerable potential for commercial application as a functional food material. In this study, maca root polysaccharides (MRPs) were prepared via hot water extraction, enzyme-assisted extraction, ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE), and deep eutectic solvent (DES)-based UAE, and their physicochemical properties and biological activities were compared. The MRP obtained using DES-based UAE (MRP-DU) exhibited the highest yield (30.85%), oil-holding capacity (5.21 g/g), emulsifying capacity (50.58%), and emulsion stability (48.14%). Additionally, MRP-DU exhibited the highest antidiabetic and absorption-retarding effects on glucose and bile acid. These results suggest that MRP obtained using DES-based UAE have high application potential as functional food materials and could also serve as antidiabetic and cholesterol-lowering agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heat stress (HS) is the most substantial environmental issue in rabbit health status impairment, which can lower productivity. Maca is a common medicinal plant with important biological activities including antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, anti‐fatigue, and neuroprotective effects. The present research explored the alleged protective role of Maca extract in alleviating the adverse impact of HS on rabbits. Growing V‐line 6‐week‐old buck rabbits (N = 48) were orally administered Maca extract at levels of 0 (MAC0), 200 (MAC2), 400 (MAC4), or 600 (MAC6) mg/head twice per week. Compared to the control groups, rabbits provided Maca had better growth performance, feed intake and feed conversion ratio. Liver and tests weights were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in Maca treated groups compared to the control. hemoglobin, white blood cell, red blood corpuscles, platelet count, hematocrit, and lymphocytes were significantly increased in the MAC4 group compared with the control group. MAC4 treatment significantly reduced aspartate aminotransferase and malondialdehyde levels compared with other groups. Moreover, the concentrations of total bilirubin, creatinine, glucose, total cholesterol, and triglycerides were lower (p < 0.05) in the MAC4 group than in the controls. Oral administration of Maca improved cortisol and testosterone values, total antioxidant capacity, and superoxide dismutase. The MAC4 group exhibited significant improvement (p < 0.05) in sperm motility, survival, membrane functionality, concentration, and libido, with a significant decrease in abnormal sperm compared with the control group. Also, aforementioned group showed sperm cells with a normal structure and intact plasma membranes, acrosomes, and well‐organised axonemal components. Histopathological screening of liver sections showed moderate to severe degenerative and necrotic changes in rabbits exposed to HS, which were alleviated with Maca oral administration. In conclusion, oral administration of Maca extract at 400 or 600 mg/head‐weekly enhanced growth performance, hemato‐biochemical attributes, antioxidant status, and semen quality in rabbits during the hot season. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maca (Lepidium meyenii) is a biennial herbaceous plant of the family Brassicaceae, which recently gained research attention as well as consumer interest. Its underground storage organs are used both as a food and as traditional medicine. The storage organs, called fleshy-hypocotyls, are formed by swollen hypocotyl tissues fused with a taproot. The attempts to grow maca outside of its centre of origin have increased globally, although many cropping requirements are unknown. In terms of fleshy-hypocotyl formation, the impact of day length remains unclear. In this study the effects of day length (8 h, 16 h) on early plant development and hypocotyl thickening in yellow maca were investigated in a rhizobox experiment under controlled conditions (20 °C day and 18 °C night temperature, and relative air humidity 25–30%). Results of a 13-week cultivation period showed that number of leaves and leaf length significantly increased in plants grown under long-day (LD, 16 h) conditions as compared to those from the short-day (SD, 8 h) treatment. Furthermore, plants developed under LD conditions had larger hypocotyl width within 67 days after sowing. At 88 days after sowing, the width was almost two-fold higher. Moreover, the total root length of maca plants from LD treatment was significantly longer and had more fine roots (diameter < 0.4 mm) than in plants cultivated in SD treatment. The obtained results suggest that in early stages of plant development LD can stimulate root development and hypocotyl thickening in yellow maca.

Nowadays, nutritional foods have a great impact on healthy diets. In particular, maca, oatmeal, broad bean, soybean, and algarrobo are widely used in different ways in the daily diets of many people due to their nutritional components. However, many of these foods share certain physical similarities with others of lower quality, making it difficult to identify them with certainty. Few studies have been conducted to find any differences using practical techniques with minimal preparation and in short durations. In this work, Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Near Infrared Spectroscopy (NIR) were used to classify and distinguish samples based on their chemical properties. The spectral data were pretreated to further highlight the differences among the samples determined via PCA. The results indicate that the raw spectral data of all the samples had similar patterns, and their respective PCA analysis results could not be used to differentiate them. However, pretreated data differentiated the foods in separate clusters according to score plots. The main difference was a C-O band that corresponded to a vibration mode at 4644 cm−1 associated with protein content. PCA combined with spectral analysis can be used to differentiate and classify foods using small samples through the chemical properties on their surfaces. This study contributes new knowledge toward the more precise identification of foods, even if they are combined.

Since 3D-EM closely resembles in vivo muscles, the aim of this study was to investigate the effects of exercise (electrical pulse stimulation (EPS)) and nutrition (maca), which contains triterpenes, on muscle hypertrophy by using 3D-EM for the first time. The 3D-EM was composed of C2C12 cells and type 1 collagen gel, was differentiated for 14 days, and was divided into four groups: control, maca, EPS, and maca + EPS. The medium was replaced every two days before each EPS intervention, and the concentration of maca in the culture solution was 1 mg/mL. The intervention conditions of the EPS were 30 V, 1 Hz, and 2 ms (24 h on, 24 h off, for one week). The expression levels of proteins were examined by Western blotting. The intervention of maca and EPS upregulated the expression of MHC-fast/slow (both p < 0.05) compared with the control group, and the addition of maca had no effect on the phosphorylation of mTOR (p = 0.287) but increased the AMPK phosphorylation (p = 0.001). These findings suggest that intervention with maca and EPS has a positive effect on muscle hypertrophy, which has a positive impact on sarcopenia. However, the underlying mechanisms remain to be further explored.

Em função da globalização e do alto nível de competitividade, cada vez mais as organizações buscam melhorias nos seus processos de produção, visando maior qualidade dos produtos e, consequentemente, a satisfação de seus clientes. Para isso, diversas técnicas e práticas podem ser seguidas, destacando-se entre elas as ferramentas de rastreabilidade e certificação. Frente a isso, o presente estudo teve como objetivo analisar a importância da rastreabilidade e certificação na cadeia produtiva da maçã na região do sul do país. Para realizar essa tarefa, foi elaborado um estudo de caráter qualitativo com entrevistas individuais em profundidade. A análise dos dados apontou que a rastreabilidade e a certificação representam fundamental importância para comprovar que os produtos estão em conformidade com as exigências. Além disso, é uma forma de agregar valor ao produto, destacar e transmitir confiança tanto da marca quanto do produto para o mercado consumidor.

Rabbits are sensitive to heat stress (HS) in hot regions due to difficulty in eliminating excess body heat. We evaluated the ameliorating role of black maca hydroalcoholic extract (BMHE) against HS conditions on the productive and reproductive performance of V-line rabbit does. Rabbits were divided into four equal groups (T1–T4), each containing three replicates. T1 received commercial basal diet (BD) only, whereas T2–T4 received BD and 200, 400, and 600 mg BMHE kg−1 body weight (BW) of doe day−1, respectively, administered orally for 1 week before the mating process each month from May to August. HS significantly decreased the BW of rabbits after the weaning period, as well as litter size, and litter weights measured 7, 14, 21, and 28 days after the postnatal period. HS conditions also significantly decreased BW at slaughter as well as all carcass quality parameters. HS led to significantly impaired physiological responses, oxidative status, and reproductive efficiency in exposed rabbits. Orally administered 400 mg BMHE kg−1 BW of doe alleviated all these drastic effects in HS rabbits among all treatments. Thus, oral treatment of 400 mg BMHE kg−1 BW (T3) is a promising ameliorating agent against HS conditions in V-line rabbit does, especially in tropical or subtropical regions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three new thiohydantoins with a 2-thioxoimidazolidin-4-one nucleus, named macathiohydantoins P–R (1 – 3), along with one known analog (4) , were isolated from the roots of Lepidium meyenii. Their structures were elucidated by means of analysis of extensive spectroscopic data, including 1D NMR, 2D NMR and HRESIMS. The thiohydantoins (1 – 4) were isolated as racemic mixtures, which were further separated by chiral semi-preparative HPLC to afford the corresponding enantiomers. Their absolute configuration of C-5 was assigned by comparison of optical rotation values with those reported in the literature. All thiohydantoin derivatives were evaluated for their cytotoxicities against five human cancer cell lines. [Display omitted] • Three new thiohydantoins, named macathiohydantoins P–R (1 − 3), were isolated from the roots of Lepidium meyenii. • Their structures were characterised by means of extensive spectroscopic analyses. • The isolated compounds were evaluated for their cytotoxicities on five human cancer cell lines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and aim: Phytoestrogens are traditionally used for cardiovascular risks but direct effects on the ischemic heart remain unclear. Plants with phytoestrogens are used for reducing menopausic symptoms and they could also be cardioprotectives. Here we investigated whether maca (Lepidium meyenii) contains isoflavones and prevents cardiac stunning, in comparison to soy isoflavones. Experimental procedure: Both products were orally and daily administered to rats during 1 week before exposing isolated hearts to ischemia/reperfusion (I/R). Young male (YM), female (YF) and aged female (AgF) rats treated with maca (MACA, 1 g/kg/day) or soy isoflavones (ISOF, 100 mg/kg/day) were compared to acute daidzein (DAZ, 5 mg/kg i.p.) and non-treated rat groups. Isolated ventricles were perfused inside a calorimeter to simultaneously measure contractile and calorimetrical signals before and during I/R. Results and conclusions: Maca has genistein and daidzein. MACA and ISOF improved the post-ischemic contractile recovery (PICR) and muscle economy (P/Ht) in YM and YF hearts, but not in AgF hearts. DAZ improved PICR and P/Ht more in YM than in YF. The mKATP channels blockade reduced both PICR and P/Ht in DAZ-treated YM hearts, without affecting them in ISOF or MACA-treated YM hearts. In MACA treated YF hearts, the simultaneous blockade of NOS and mKATP channels, or the mNCX blockade reduced cardioprotection. Results show that subacute oral treatment with maca or with soy isoflavones was strongly preventive of cardiac ischemic dysfunction, more than the acute administration of a pure isoflavone (daidzein, genistein). Maca induced synergistic and complex mechanisms which prevented mitochondrial calcium overload.

Background: The Lepidium meyenii plant also known as Peruvian Maca, originates from high altitudes in the Andes, it has a high nutritional content and is extensively used as an herbal supplement for conditions such as sexual dysfunction, semen quality and menopausal symptoms. Objective: This systematic review was conducted to assess the effects of Maca on variety of conditions and not limited to sexual dysfunction, semen quality and menopausal symptoms. Methods: An extensive systematic review was conducted according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2015. Three databases (PubMed, Science Direct and Google Scholar) in addition to patents were searched up to March 2021. The key criteria for inclusion were; (1) in vivo study (2) randomized controlled clinical trial; (3) subjects were given Maca regardless of the type, preparation and/or administration route; and (4) measurable clinical data on a physiological and/or psychological aspect were reported. Studies were categorised into human and animal model studies and were further grouped by the type and preparation of Maca, dose, duration and condition assessed. The studies were also assessed for risk of bias according to the Cochrane Collaborations tool. Studies were compared to ascertain whether a meta-analysis was feasible. Results: A total of 57 studies, 14 clinical and 43 pre-clinical trials met the pre-defined criteria; although patent applications were searched none met the criteria. Nine different extraction methods of Maca were used with various coloured roots namely black, yellow and red roots or a mixture of all three. Different colour variations showed different effects thought to be due to the presence and/or concentration of secondary metabolites. Maca was reported to have an effect on conditions such as memory impairment, depression, bone structure, UV irradiations amongst others. Placebo and dose-dependant effects were observed in some studies. The overall quality of risk of bias was unclear due to insufficient information being published in addition to a high risk of reporting bias. Doses and durations varied, and an insufficient number of studies had further analysed whether these factors had an effect on the outcome made a meta-analysis unfeasible. Therefore, recommendations for future studies were discussed. Conclusion: Evidence to date suggests that Maca root could be an effective treatment for a range of conditions with 55 out of 57 studies reporting an effect. Clinical trials with rigorous reporting and methods are warranted.

Background: This study aimed to examine the evidence for the effect of Lepidium meyenii Walp. [Brassicaceae] (L. meyenii W.), known as maca, on improving semen quality. Methods: Nine databases were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that examined the parameters for improvements in semen quality, regardless of the type of L. meyenii W. The risk of bias (ROB) among the studies was evaluated according to the Cochrane ROB tool. Results: Five RCTs met all of the inclusion criteria. Three RCTs showed mixed efficacy of maca in improving semen quality parameters, including sperm concentration and sperm motility, in men experiencing infertility. The metaanalysis also failed to show the efficacy of maca in increasing the sperm concentration compared to the placebo (weighted mean difference, 2.22, 95% confidence interval -2.94 to 7.37, p = 0.4). Two other RCTs also showed mixed effects of maca on several semen quality parameters in healthy men. Conclusion: The evidence from the included studies suggests unclear effects of maca on semen quality parameters in both men experiencing infertility and healthy men. However, the total number of RCTs and the total sample size were too small to draw firm conclusions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Quail has become a popular poultry species, and it is usually used for egg production in Asia and for meat production in Europe and America. In laying quails, aging negatively affects productive performance, egg parameters, and reproductive hormones, just as it affects their bones and digestive systems. Farmers who raise quails suffer great losses due to this fact. There are several nutrients and bioactive substances in Maca with positive effects on hormones and digestive health, which makes it an excellent option for reducing the effects of aging. This study specifies the benefits of Maca powder on aging quails' diet. The experimental data indicate that adding 1 g/kg Maca powder to a quail's diet significantly improved eggshell, ileum, and bone traits that deteriorate with age, without affecting performance. Adding 2 g/kg Maca powder to a quail's diet also significantly reduced serum cholesterol levels. Incorporating Maca powder into the diet of aged birds could reduce the negative effects of aging. Using additives can reduce the negative effects of aging on factors affecting profitability, such as the availability of nutrients, production, and egg quality. Maca is an herbaceous plant rich in protein, crude oil, essential acids, and pharmacological compounds. Maca has positive effects on different health parameters. In this study, the effect of adding Maca powder to the diets of young and old laying quails at the end of the 10-week trial was investigated. In total, 150 laying Japanese quails (Coturnix japonica) (209.1 ± 10.0 g) were randomly distributed to a 2 × 3 factorial arrangement with two ages (10 weeks and 30 weeks) and three Maca powder levels (0, 1, or 2 g/kg), with five subgroups per treatment. According to the study, eggshell quality, total cholesterol, triglyceride, progesterone, and testosterone concentrations of serum were lower in old quail than in young quail, while egg weight, feed intake, and follicle-stimulating hormone increased significantly as quail aged. (p < 0.05). Furthermore, aging negatively affected the histomorphology of the ileum and cortical bone thickness (p < 0.05). Additional findings show that adding 1 g/kg Maca powder to the diet of quail significantly improved eggshell, ileum, and bone traits that deteriorate with age, without affecting performance, and adding 2 g/kg Maca powder to the diet significantly reduced serum total cholesterol levels (p < 0.05). Incorporating Maca powder into the diet of aged birds could reduce the negative effects of aging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to shed light on the effect of a novel Lepidium peruvianum (Maca) blend on anti‐fatigue capacities in exercised rats. Twenty‐eight male albino rats were allocated into four groups (n = 7) at random: (i) Control (vehicle), (ii) Maca: (40 mg/kg/BW), (iii) WL‐FST: weight‐loaded forced swimming test group, and (iv) WL‐FST + Maca group. Maca supplementation increased swimming time to exhaustion (p <.01), while decreased serum lactate and liver glycogen concentrations. Maca addition resulted in lower levels of serum, liver, and muscle MDA (p <.05). Muscle GPx activity increased in both Maca groups (p <.001). Moreover, NF‐κB levels were less in the WL‐FST + Maca compared to the WL‐FST group (p <.001). Nrf1, Nrf2, PGC‐1α, SIRT1, and TFAM levels were augmented in the WL‐FST + Maca compared to the WL‐FST (p <.05). Consequently, our Maca blend increased endurance capacity and prevented exercise‐induced oxidative stress and lactic acid buildup. Practical applications: The brassica species Lepidium peruvianum (maca) has been consumed in Peru for centuries to enhance mood, libido, and energy. Although the positive effects of this plant on energy metabolism are accredited, the underlying molecular mechanisms of these effects have not been sufficiently elucidated. The current study's findings suggest that this innovative, exclusive maca powder blend can boost endurance while preventing oxidative stress and lactic acid buildup during acute exercise. The mechanism of this efficacy is thought to be caused by maca's regulatory properties on energy metabolism signaling receptors and strong antioxidant scavenging effects on the free radicals that are produced by prolonged exhaustive exercise periods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Kirkuk University for Agricultural Sciences is the property of Republic of Iraq Ministry of Higher Education & Scientific Research (MOHESR) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Journal of Kirkuk University for Agricultural Sciences is the property of Republic of Iraq Ministry of Higher Education & Scientific Research (MOHESR) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)